“-— Be not deceived—” – I Corinthians 6:9
Of all the many words that might be used to describe the depraved world in which we live “deceived” must be near the top of the list. Deception has been around since the garden of Eden and it is as dangerous today as then. Defending against deception should always be on our mind because it comes at us from all directions.
Con men specialize in deceiving people and they don’t have to search long to find a mark. Politicians major in deceptions – thus the condition of our country! But the most dangerous form of deception has to do with religion. And everywhere you look you see people touting one religion or another. We live in a world that is as confused as it is corrupt. And considering the consequences we cannot afford to be wrong – especially in regards to salvation. That’s why the Word of God gives us so many warnings.
Whatever you do, don’t buy into the nonsense that says “one religion is just as good as another,” or “we all worship the same God”, or “We’re all trying to get to the same place, just taking different routes to get there” None of those things are true. Don’t be deceived! Regardless of how sincere you are about your beliefs they won’t get you to heaven unless they are according to the truth.
Truth is your best friend and error is you worst enemy. Truth will set you free. Falsehood will deceive and destroy you. You can’t afford to be wrong. Refuse to believe everything you hear. Receive God’s Word as your guide (2 Tim.:3:14-17). Request God’s help (Ps.25:5). Reflect on your spiritual condition (2 Cor.13:5). Rely upon God’s promises (Isa.26:3-4). Repent and receive Christ through faith in the glorious gospel. “Do not err” (Ja.1:16). “Be not deceived” (I Cor.6:19). You can know without a doubt that you are saved (I John 5:13).– HDS
